Ten Ways To Repurpose Old Apple iPad and Make It Useful Again

Hey Apple fans! We all know how quickly technology moves, and it’s not long before we end up with older devices that aren’t our main gadgets anymore. If you’ve got an old iPad just sitting around gathering dust, hold off on getting rid of it. Here are ten fun and creative ways to breathe new life into that trusty old iPad.

Photo Credit: Apple Commercial for The New iPad (2012)

1. Turn It Into a Digital Photo Frame

Transform your old iPad into a stylish digital photo frame. There are various apps available that can display slideshows of your favorite photos. Simply set it up on a stand or mount it on the wall, and you’ve got a modern, dynamic way to showcase your memories.

2. Use It as a Dedicated E-Reader

While e-readers like the Kindle are popular, your old iPad can serve as a fantastic e-reading device. Load it up with your favorite e-books and apps like Kindle, Apple Books, or any PDF reader to enjoy reading without draining the battery on your primary device.

3. Create a Smart Home Hub

With the rise of smart home technology, your old iPad can become a dedicated control center. Install smart home apps such as Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Alexa. Place the iPad in a central location in your home for easy access to control lights, thermostats, security cameras, and more.

4. Set Up a Kitchen Companion

Make your cooking experience more enjoyable by using your old iPad as a kitchen companion. Use it to display recipes, watch cooking tutorials, or even make video calls to friends and family while preparing meals. A durable stand or wall mount will keep it safe from spills and splashes.

5. Use It as a Second Monitor

Extend your desktop workspace by using your iPad as a second monitor. Apps like Duet Display and Sidecar (for Mac users) allow you to use your iPad as an additional screen, which can be particularly useful for multitasking and boosting productivity.

6. Dedicated Music Player

Turn your old iPad into a dedicated music player. With apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, you can create a music station that stays in one place. Connect it to a speaker system, and you’ve got an easy-to-use home music hub.

7. Keep It as a Kids’ Entertainment Device

An old iPad can be perfect for children. Load it with educational apps, games, and videos. You can also set parental controls to ensure they have a safe and appropriate experience. This way, your primary device remains free from sticky fingers and potential damage.

8. Use It for Digital Art and Design

If you’re into digital art, your old iPad can serve as a great canvas. Apps like Procreate, Adobe Photoshop Sketch, and Autodesk SketchBook turn your iPad into a powerful tool for drawing and designing. Pair it with an Apple Pencil for an enhanced experience, if compatible.

9. Set Up a Dedicated Video Call Device

With the increase in virtual communication, having a dedicated device for video calls can be very convenient. Use your old iPad with apps like Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or Microsoft Teams. This allows you to keep your main devices free for other tasks during meetings or virtual gatherings.

10. Create a Personal Security Camera Monitor

If you have a security system at home, your old iPad can be repurposed as a dedicated monitor for security camera feeds. Apps from security companies or general monitoring apps like Manything or AtHome Camera can turn your iPad into a central monitoring station.

Your old Apple iPad still holds significant potential beyond its original purpose. From being a practical household assistant to serving as a creative tool, there are numerous ways to give it a second life. Repurposing your old iPad not only helps reduce electronic waste but also maximizes the value of your investment. So, before you consider recycling or discarding it, try one of these innovative ideas to make the most out of your aging device.